The Lexham English Bible (LEB) is a relatively new translation, first released in 2010 by Logos Bible Software. Unlike older English versions rooted in denominational projects, the LEB was designed as a digital-first Bible, intended to work seamlessly with Logos’ tools and resources. It positions itself as a highly transparent, study-oriented translation that helps readers see the underlying Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek more clearly than most mainstream versions.

What Language Was the Bible Originally Written In? One of the most common misconceptions about the Bible is that it was originally written in Latin. Others assume it was all Hebrew, while some argue for Aramaic or even claim the New Testament was first written in Hebrew or Syriac (the Peshitta). The truth is more complex—but also more secure. The Bible was written over many centuries, by dozens of authors, in a few key languages.

The Message (MSG): A Contemporary Paraphrase. The Message (MSG), created by Eugene Peterson and released in segments between 1993 and 2002, is one of the most popular modern paraphrases of the Bible. Peterson, a pastor and scholar in biblical languages, wrote it with the intent of making Scripture vivid and accessible in everyday conversational English.

The Clear Word Bible: An Adventist Doctrinal Paraphrase. The Clear Word Bible, published in 1994 by Seventh-day Adventist theologian Jack Blanco, is marketed as a “devotional paraphrase.” While it presents itself as a tool to make Scripture easy to understand, it is in reality a theologically biased rewriting of the Bible. Rather than drawing from the Hebrew and Greek manuscripts, Blanco reshapes verses to reflect distinctive Adventist doctrines.

The Passion Translation (TPT): A One-Man Paraphrase Masquerading as Scripture. The Passion Translation (TPT), produced by Brian Simmons and first released in 2017, markets itself as a “fresh, Spirit-led translation” of Scripture. In reality, it is not a translation at all. Unlike genuine translations, which are produced by committees of trained scholars working with the original texts, the TPT is a one-man paraphrase shaped by Simmons’ claim of receiving supernatural guidance

The New World Translation (NWT): A Distorted Witness. The New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (NWT) is the official Bible produced by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society for the Jehovah’s Witnesses. First published in its New Testament form in 1950, and in complete form by 1961, the NWT has undergone revisions in 1984 and 2013. Unlike reputable translations produced by broad committees of biblical scholars, the NWT was created anonymously by members of the Watchto

The OSB: Returning to the Bible of the Early Church. The Orthodox Study Bible (OSB), first published in its complete form in 2008, is the only major English-language study Bible produced with an explicitly Eastern Orthodox perspective. What distinguishes the OSB from nearly all other modern English Bibles is its use of the Septuagint (LXX) as the basis for the Old Testament, rather than the Hebrew Masoretic Text.

The NAB & NABRE: Catholic Tradition and Modern Revision. The New American Bible (NAB) and its later revision, the New American Bible Revised Edition (NABRE), are the standard English translations used in Catholic liturgy and study in the United States. First released in 1970, the NAB was the product of decades of Catholic scholarship, aiming to provide a translation faithful to the original languages while suitable for public reading in Mass.

The CSB: Balance, Fidelity, and Modern Appeal. The Christian Standard Bible (CSB) is a modern English translation published in 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers, a division of Lifeway Christian Resources. It builds on the earlier Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB, 2004) but represents a significant revision.

The CEB: Accessibility, Collaboration, and Controversy. The Common English Bible (CEB) is one of the newest major English translations, first published in 2011. It was created with the goal of making Scripture clear and approachable for everyday readers while still retaining accuracy and faithfulness to the original texts.

The RSV: Scholarship, Tradition, and Continuity. The Revised Standard Version (RSV) stands as a notable midpoint between historic English Bibles and modern translations. First published in 1952 (with the New Testament arriving in 1946), the RSV updated the American Standard Version (ASV, 1901) in contemporary language while preserving the literary style of earlier English Bibles.

The NRSV: Scholarship, Tradition, and Inclusivity. The New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) is one of the most respected English Bible translations in academic, liturgical, and ecumenical settings. First published in 1989, it grew out of the Revised Standard Version (RSV) tradition, carrying forward a legacy of careful, committee-based translation work rooted in mainline Protestantism. It is known for its scholarly precision, inclusive language, and acceptance across denominat

The NLT: History, Clarity, and Faithfulness. The New Living Translation (NLT) is one of the most widely read modern English Bibles, known for its readability and devotional warmth. First published in 1996, it has often been mislabeled as a “paraphrase,” largely because it grew out of Kenneth Taylor’s Living Bible. But the NLT is not a paraphrase. It is a serious translation from the original languages.

The NIV: History, Claims, and Clarity. The New International Version (NIV) is one of the most widely read and debated Bible translations of the modern era. First published in 1978, it was created with the goal of bridging the gap between accuracy and readability. It quickly became a favorite among evangelicals, pastors, and laypeople worldwide. Its philosophy of “dynamic equivalence” sought to communicate not just words, but meaning, in contemporary English.

The KJV: History, Myths, and Meaning. The King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, first published in 1611, remains one of the most famous and enduring translations in the history of Christianity. Its phrases shaped the English language, its cadence inspired poets and preachers alike, and its cultural impact has been felt for over four centuries. Yet as loved as it is, the KJV is also surrounded by myths and misconceptions.

The ESV: History, Method, and Meaning. The English Standard Version (ESV), first published in 2001, has quickly become one of the most influential English translations of the Bible. Marketed as “essentially literal,” it aims for word-for-word accuracy while maintaining readability. Popular among Reformed and complementarian circles, the ESV has become the standard translation for many evangelical churches.

The NASB: History, Method, and Meaning. The New American Standard Bible (NASB) is widely regarded as one of the most literal English translations of the Bible. First published in the late 20th century, it has become a standard for pastors, scholars, and students who want an English text that stays as close as possible to the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek originals.

The Masoretic Text: What It Is—And What It’s Not. If you’ve ever read a Bible that didn’t include the so-called “Apocrypha,” or noticed differences in Old Testament quotations between your Bible and the New Testament authors, you’ve likely encountered the effects of the Masoretic Text (MT). But what is it, really? Where did it come from? And why does it matter?

King James Bible - A Superior Translation? KJV-Onlyism is the belief that the King James Version (1611) is not only a valid translation of the Bible, but the only divinely authorized, inspired, and preserved Word of God in English. For some, it is viewed as perfect, unchangeable, and superior even to the original Hebrew and Greek.

For many Christians, picking up a Bible feels simple—just choose a cover you like, open to a familiar page, and start reading. But if you’ve ever compared two translations side by side, you probably noticed that they don’t always match word for word.